September 28: It Does Not Matter If Any Political Party Refuses To Participate In The Upcoming Local Government Elections

IZUCHUKWU ADICHIE

It is not surprising to see some anti-progressives in Anambra continue to oppose the state’s developmental progress and inclusive governance achieved under the Soludo administration. Their opposition to the upcoming local government elections, which are to be conducted by the Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission (ANSIEC) on September 28, is a clear reflection of their hate for the political advancement in the state.

These individuals have in the past taken to the market square with their reckless utterances that only serve their interest, blackmail and campaign of calumny to clamour for the conduct of the local government election. However, it is important to note that ANSIEC has given assurance to Ndi Anambra regarding its readiness to organize local government elections that are both free and fair, which hasn’t been conducted for the past 20 years.

Even before the Supreme Court’s judgment, which mandates local government elections, Soludo had already taken steps to prepare for these elections. This included reforming local government administration and the welfare of the workers, enacting the Anambra Electoral Act 2024 into law, appointing members of the ANSIEC, and inaugurating the commission, which is mandated to announce the election date and conduct and oversee the entire election process.

The upcoming local government elections in Anambra State will still be considered legitimate despite the refusal of some political parties to participate, as participation is not mandatory. The state is committed to upholding the agreement between the federal government and states to conduct elections within a three-month timeframe, as failure to comply would result in the withholding of funds essential for local development projects and salaries.